1959 Fiat 1100 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 1100 would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 43 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Fiat 1100 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1959 Fiat 1100 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Fiat 1100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 1100. (73 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fiat 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Fiat 1100 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1100 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1089 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
